Filling the void of side-scrolling platform action games like Ninja Gaiden, Capcom releases
Strider 2 for the Sony PlayStation.
The original Strider is included on a separate disc when you buy the sequel. The controls are a
bit sticky, and the poor hit detection results in frustratingly perilous falls and deaths. Even with
the unlimited continues, the original Strider is extremely challenging.
The sequel is much better. The unlimited continues don't stop the game before continuing.
When you die, the game screen remains active until you press Start. Then it's as if you never
died. Boom! You're back. I love it.
I whipped through Strider 2 like it was nothing. I saw the ending in a few hours. The Hien
character is your prize; you can play the game again with this super-fast, dressed-in-white
character. He reminds me of Caesar at the end of "Gladiator."
Strider 2 does not offer anything new or unique, but the gravity-free levels are fun anyway. The
levels have a nice visual variety, but the game play is pretty much always the same.
The real issue with this game is whether or not you intend to use the continues. If you don't,
then be prepared for a lot more strategic planning to beat some of those wild bosses.
The game play of the sequel is remarkably true to its two-dimensional predecessor, but Strider 2
is best for hard-core fans.
Note: Someone fell asleep in the Capcom manufacturing plant. The disc that says "Strider 2"
has the original game on it; the disc that merely says "Strider" has the sequel on it. Go figure.
Publisher: Capcom